What Month is Best to See the Northern Lights?
The Northern Lights (or Aurora Borealis) are one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena, and a fantastic photographic opportunity. But when is the best time of year to see the Northern Lights?
You can have a forecast for aurora on this website
Factors to Consider
The best way to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights is between September and March, as this is when the majority of activity takes place. This is due to the amount of sun activity, combined with the amount of darkness – Northern Lights require darkness to be visible. The closer you get to the North or South poles, the more likely you are to see them – this is because the Earth’s magnetic field is stronger near the poles. For an extra chance of success, plan your northern lights-hunting trip around a full moon.
Best Northern Lights Countries
The Northern Lights are commonly seen in Iceland, Norway, and Finland – these countries are at prime northern latitudes and offer plenty of darkness for the Northern Lights to be seen. Other good spots to watch are Sweden, Greenland, Canada, Russia, and Alaska. Each country has its own unique atmosphere to offer, and could provide the perfect backdrop to your Northern Lights photographing.
Equipment & Photography Tips
If you’re looking to take some great shots of the Northern Lights, make sure you have the right equipment – a digital camera, a tripod, and a remote trigger. You’ll also need plenty of spare batteries and memory cards. It’s best to use a large lens and shoot from a low angle to capture the most dramatic shots. Experiment with exposure time and ISO settings to get the perfect photographs.
When attempting to capture the Northern Lights, patience is key. Calm yourself, take your time, and let the aurora appear.
- September – March is the best time of year
- The closer to the North pole, the better your chances of seeing the Northern Lights
- Plan your trip around a full moon
In conclusion, the best months to see the Northern Lights are between September and March, and the best countries are Iceland, Norway, and Finland. If you’re looking to take some great shots, make sure you have the right equipment, and remember to be patient.
Main Keywords: Northern Lights, September – March.